Seattle, WA
Baker Language and Learning Center

Discipline

OVERALL RATING (4.4)

Parents at this school, on average, believe that conflicts between children:
...are handled extraordinarily well in a way that not only gives me confidence in the safety of my child but also reassures me that my child (and his/her peers) are learning the early skills needed to socialize effectively with one another

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Director's Description to School's Approach to Discipline

We use the term "discipline" inter-changeably with "guidance." In guiding children's behavior, we are promoting pro-social life skills that children can take with them wherever they go in the world later in life. We never refer to children's behavior as "good" or "bad;" rather as "misguided," if they are doing something that we wish for them to change, or as a choice that is not working for them. Language is so important, especially at this early age of development, that what we say and the messages we give children now can form their whole self-view and ability to change and adapt later.

If a child is acting in a way that is harmful to themself, others, or the space, we like to give that child an opportunity to make another choice. Sometimes, though, emotions have run too high and teacher intervention is necessary. When an intervention is necessary, we are careful to guide the behavior through language that is useful to the child, such as, "I see you're really angry (or frustrated or sad or worried). Where do you feel your (emotion)? Is it here in your chest (or in your neck or in your shoulders or eyebrows)?" Sometimes, it is enough to simply engage or re-direct the child. Other times, it's important for the situation or for the child to talk out what happened and to discuss natural and logical consequences.

We NEVER shame a child or make the action about the child. This kind of discipline is about punishment, which loses the teachable moment.

Parents' Notes on Discipline, Health and Safety

Parent #1
The school is next to a park, so the school has two outdoor play options: one in the great back yard and two at the park playground.

Parent #2
My daughter was already pretty good about sitting still and paying attention at longer intervals, but she has definitely learned more empathy and compassion and how to identify her feelings and ways of expressing them through her teacher last year, and her new teachers this year.

Health

OVERALL RATING (4.6)
Temperature and overall air circulation is comfortable
Healthy and nutritious snacks are provided More >
Toys and furniture are cleaned regularly

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Safety

OVERALL RATING (4.3)
Screen and identify all visitors More >
Parents may not bring sick children to school where they may infect others

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Montessori? Waldorf? Play-based?

What school type is right for your child? Is one model better than another? What does the research say?

View an example from the Savvy Source guide to learn more.

Trace around your child's foot, with shoe on, on a piece of white construction paper or card stock. Have child cut out the shoe print and add a spooky face. Glue it to a popsicle stick and you have a ghost stick puppet!

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